Greece is sometimes called ‘The Cradle of western Civilisation’ and it’s true that you’ll find relics of Ancient Greece wherever you go. But it’s a lively modern country too, with all the shops, restaurants and entertainment of any modern European country.
Getting a taste of the famed cuisine
You’ll find that Greek people love to eat out in a very sociable ways so expect to find informal tavernas round every corner. You’ll see that the Greeks often eat out in large family groups.
It’s fun to join in the friendly atmosphere. The food is usually a healthy mix of Mediterranean salads with grilled meat and fish. And look out for local specialities like olives, feta cheese, moussaka and filo pastries.
Modern Athens
The Greek capital is one of Europe’s oldest cities but has a contemporary appeal too. From the ultra-modern architecture of the international airport to the glamorous clubs and restaurants of the city centre, there’s a buzz about Athens. If you get a chance to use the high-tech Metro system, for example, you’ll find one of the most attractive subways in the world. Many stations are built from Greek marble and lined with the work of modern Greek artists.
When driving around the city above ground, look out for spectacular avant garde architecture too. Highlights include the strange pod-like Olympic Complex designed by Santiago Calatrava and the modern offices and hotels along Leoforos Singru boulevard, linking the centre with the coast.
Ancient sights
The large, bustling capital of Athens, of course, is famous for its relics of the Ancient Greeks. The rocky hill called The Acropolis overlooks the city centre and is the site of the Parthenon temple, with its vast ranks of classical columns. Even if you get bored of the old stones, the views are spectacular.
You’ll find major historic sights like this all over Greece, including the home of the Olympics in Olympia and the temples on the island of Rhodes. The Bronze Age remains of Knossos on Crete are thought to be Europe’s oldest city.
Other Greek highlights include the monasteries at Meteora in the mountains of central Greece. These medieval buildings cling to vast rock-faces above the town of Kalambaka and are a World Heritage Site.
Natural wonders
One of the wonders of the modern world is the horseshoe island of Santorini, which is formed from the crater of an old submarine volcano. The island’s steep 1000ft cliffs are dotted with whitewashed houses facing into a circle of blue sea.
Explore Mount Olympus, the country’s highest mountain and the mythical home of the Greek Gods. It’s a great spot for hiking and climbing.
And there’s more great views and walks in the Samaria Gorge, a National Park among the white mountains of Crete. There’s a celebrated 10-mile trail through the steep gorge between the rock faces where you can spot wild goats looking down on you.
Soaking up the Med's sunshine
Greece's complex jagged coastline is the longest in the Mediterranean. Along it, both the Greek mainland and islands boast some of Europe’s best beaches.
They range from the black volcanic sand of Santorini to the white beaches of Zakynthos. For quieter resorts try the east coast of Pelion, including Demouhari, which starred in the film Mama Mia, and Thasos, which has quiet beaches backed by undeveloped green mountains.
Explore this amazing country with car hire in Greece from Hertz.
